2 killed in Manipur protests over siblings’ murder, CRPF opens fire as violence escalates

Two people were killed and at least 31 others injured in Manipur on Tuesday after security forces opened fire to control a violent protest triggered by the killing of a five-year-old boy and his six-month-old sister. The incident took place after protesters stormed a CRPF camp, vandalised property, and set vehicles on fire.

State home minister Govindas Konthoujam confirmed the casualties, stating that the victims succumbed to bullet injuries during efforts by security personnel to disperse the crowd. The protest erupted in response to the killing of the siblings in Bishnupur’s Tronglaobi area earlier in the day, which sparked widespread outrage.

Authorities have suspended internet and mobile data services in several districts, including Imphal East, Imphal West, Thoubal, Kakching, and Bishnupur, for three days to prevent further escalation. Chief minister Yumnam Khemchand condemned the killings and said the case would be handed over to the National Investigation Agency, assuring that the culprits would be brought to justice.

Manipur has been grappling with prolonged ethnic violence since May 2023, which has resulted in over 260 deaths and displaced around 60,000 people. The conflict, primarily between Meitei and Kuki communities, continues to disrupt normalcy despite ongoing security measures.